Intuitive interface

Open any computer program and you are subjected to an array of buttons, fonts and layouts that are usually fixed and unchangeable. Such designs are especially frustrating for disabled people, older people and anyone who has trouble controlling a mouse.

A new approach to design, developed by researchers at the University of Washington, would put each person through a brief skills test and then generate a mathematically-based version of the user interface optimised for his or her vision and motor abilities.

The system, called Supple, begins with a one-time assessment of a person's mouse pointing, dragging and clicking skills. A ring of dots appears on the screen and as each dot lights up, the user must quickly click on it.

The task is repeated with different-sized dots. Other prompts ask the participant to click and drag, select from a list, and click repeatedly on one spot. Participants can move the cursor using any type of device. The test takes about 20 minutes for an able-bodied person or up to 90 minutes for a person with motor disabilities.